Lake Sam Rayburn

Because Life is Better at the Lake

Public Hunting in Texas

by Tom Behrens, Freelance Writer & Photographer

Tom Behrens has over 50 years experience in fishing and hunting across the United States. Much of this time was spent in Oklahoma and Texas where he became very familiar with the outdoor opportunities in these states. You may contact him by email at: tomdoglover29@aol.com

Find a place to hunt on over one million acres of publicly accessible land located throughout Texas. Hunt areas include property owned by TPWD acreage leased by the department from other state and federal agencies, forest products industries, and other cooperating private landowners.

Annual Public Hunting PermitThe Annual Public Hunting Permit (also known as walk-in) provides nearly year-round hunting on nearly one million acres of land. Hunt white-tailed deer, feral hogs, dove, quail, turkey, waterfowl, rabbit, squirrel and more on more than 180 hunting areas, including wildlife management areas, state parks and approximately 120 dove and small game areas leased from private landowners.

Drawn HuntsThe Public Hunt Drawing System provides opportunities to apply for a wide variety of supervised, drawn hunts including special drawings for both adults and youth hunters.

Lake Sam Rayburn Water Level (last 30 days)

Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Report from TPWD (Sep. 12)

FAIR. Water stained; 86–89 degrees; 1.65’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on spinnerbaits,soft plastic worms, and lizards. Some success with largemouth on top waters early and late. White bass are fair on minnows and Alabama rigs. Crappie are fair on minnows over baited holes. Catfish are good with live bait and cut bait.